One of the lines in Spyro’s song *Billing* goes: “T’owo ba tan eyan lo ma ku, is a lie” which roughly translates to “when the money runs out, people will remain (is a lie).” It’s a line about the fickleness of human relationships, especially when finances are involved. I remember listening to this song with my mum one day, and she called it “Asipa Owe” which means “proverb correction” in Yoruba. It was an interesting phrase, and it got me thinking about other sayings that could use some correction.

Rethinking the Proverb

One proverb that stands out is “The devil you know is better than the angel you don’t know.” This saying raises questions. Why should we settle for a known devil? This kind of thinking keeps many people trapped in toxic situations, whether it’s a bad relationship, a dead-end job, or unhealthy friendships. People cling to the familiar, even when harmful, out of fear of the unknown. Is familiarity truly a safety net, or a prison disguised as comfort?

Merriam-Webster clarifies the proverb slightly: “The devil you know is better than the devil you don’t know”. That’s a bit more reasonable, but it still raises questions. Why stay in a negative situation just because it’s familiar? While it’s true you shouldn’t jump recklessly into new situations that might turn out to be equally harmful, that doesn’t mean you should shy away from positive changes or opportunities just because they come with uncertainty.

Embracing Change

I started this post inspired by someone I perceived as holding on to a bad situation, and I realized it’s still a learning curve for me too. Why do we deny ourselves potential happiness just because something feels familiar? It’s important to remember that the “devil” you know was once a stranger. So why is starting afresh so terrifying? Whether it’s a new job, a budding friendship, or a blossoming romantic relationship, it’s important to give yourself the chance to experience something better. You deserve to be surrounded by people who uplift you, whether they are family, friends, colleagues, or a partner.

Another key lesson is to not be pressured into sacrificing our well-being for others. Remember, your well-being should always come first. Don’t sacrifice your mental health for the sake of familiarity or fear of loneliness. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you, and prioritize activities that bring you joy and fulfilment.

The proverb, “The devil you know is better than the angel you don’t know” may seem wise at first glance, but it’s important to challenge its assumptions. By embracing change and stepping out of our comfort zones, we can create a more fulfilling and rewarding life. It’s time to break free from the chains of familiarity and embrace the unknown with courage and optimism.